Is Smoky Mountain National Park Free?

Smoky Mountains, Smoky Mountains Conservation and Preservation, Smoky Mountains National Park Management

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By Core Editors Desk

Yes, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free to enter. However, there are some fees associated with certain activities and services within the park. In this blog post, we’ll explore the details of the park’s free entrance policy, as well as the various fees and funding mechanisms that support this iconic American treasure.

Entrance Fee

Is Smoky Mountain National Park Free
Image Credit: Wikimedia

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the few national parks in the United States that does not charge an entrance fee. This means that visitors can access the park’s stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities without having to pay a fee to enter.

Parking Fee

Is Smoky Mountain National Park Free

While the entrance to the park is free, visitors are required to pay a parking fee if they plan to park their vehicles for more than 15 minutes. The parking fees are as follows:

  • Daily: $5
  • Weekly: $15
  • Annual: $40

These parking fees can be purchased at various visitor centers, the Gatlinburg Welcome Center, and other designated locations within the park.

Other Fees

In addition to the parking fees, there are a few other fees associated with certain activities and services within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

  • Camping: Fees apply for both front-country and backcountry camping.
  • Lodging: Fees apply for any lodging accommodations within the park, such as cabins or campsites.
  • Tours and Materials: Fees may be charged for some guided tours, informational booklets, and maps.

History Behind Free Entrance

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s free entrance policy has a unique history. The states of Tennessee and North Carolina originally transferred the Newfound Gap Road to the park, with a restriction that prevented the park from charging tolls on this primary road. This led to the park not charging an entrance fee, as federal law prohibits charging entrance fees where tolls are prohibited on primary park roads.

Funding

Despite the lack of an entrance fee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is able to maintain its operations and facilities through a variety of funding sources:

  • National Park Service Budget: The park’s expenses are factored into the overall budget of the National Park Service, which is submitted to Congress for approval each year.
  • Donations: Non-profit organizations like Friends of the Smokies and the Great Smoky Mountains Association contribute significantly to the park’s funding through donations and the sale of products.

Free Entrance Days

In addition to the park’s general free entrance policy, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park also honors designated free entrance days throughout the year. These free entrance days can be found on the park’s website and are a great opportunity for visitors to explore the park without having to pay any fees.

In conclusion, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a unique and accessible national park that offers visitors the opportunity to experience its natural wonders without having to pay an entrance fee. While there are some fees associated with certain activities and services, the park’s free entrance policy and diverse funding sources ensure that it remains a beloved destination for millions of visitors each year.

Reference:
– Great Smoky Mountains National Park
– Friends of the Smokies
– Great Smoky Mountains Association

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